Body of missing swimmer recovered near Centennial Park in Fort Myers

June 22, 2014

The body of a swimmer who jumped from the pier in Cenntennial Park and then failed to resurface has been recovered from the river.

The accident happened shortly before 4:45 p.m. and rescue efforts began when a friend with the missing man called police for assistance at that time.

Marine resources from the Fort Myers Police Department, Fort Myers Fire Department, Lee County Sheriff's Office, Cape Coral Police Department, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, United States Coast Guard, Iona McGregor Fire Department and Lee County EMS responded to the area to help search for the missing swimmer.

After two hours of searching, divers entered the water and discovered the victim's body at the bottom of the Caloosahatchee. Police have identified the deceased male and are working to notify next of kin.

Police are working the incident as an accidental death and there is no foul play involved, officials said.

"This is a very unfortunate accident and our thoughts go out the young man's family, " said Fort Myers Police spokesman Lt. Jay Rodriguez in a prepared statement.

The department urged caution when swimming in unfamiliar waters, adding that piers, bridges and other structures are not intended for diving.